Post-doctoral researcher, social media analytics for algorithmic profiling

The Faculty of Science and the Leiden Institute of Advanced Computer Science (LIACS) are looking for a
Post-doctoral researcher, social media analytics for algorithmic profiling
Vacancy number: 22-472

Project description
The research will be conducted in the Achieving Accountable Algorithmic Profiling program (A3P). The position forms a bridge between two of Leiden University’s Interdisciplinary Research Programmes: Social Resilience and Security and the AI programme SAILS, collectively aiming to contribute to the creation of a Leiden University Algorithmic Resilience Hub.
The position involves research in artificial intelligence, in particular social network analysis,  and natural language processing in the context of, amongst others, profiling and mis-information. This topic is of great societal importance. The work includes but is not limited to: planning the research, developing software, tools and experiments, publishing findings, co-authoring scientific output with the other team members, as well as organizing and participating in conferences and communication with the general public, commensurate with the societal importance of the topic. Moreover, as the Accountable Algorithmic Profiling program (A3P) is growing and expanding, the position involves taking initiatives to reach out and engage with colleagues already involved, as well as making new connections. 

The position is hosted by Leiden University, at the Leiden Institute of Advanced Computer Science, in close collaboration with the Faculties of Law and Governance/Global Affairs, and the SAILS and Social Resilience and Security programs.

SAILS, Society, Artificial Intelligence and Life Sciences, is a university wide initiative aiming to facilitate collaboration across disciplines on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Jointly, experts from among others computer science, public administration and law engage in interdisciplinary research and teaching on AI and algorithms. One area of particular interest is algorithmic decision-making, and more specifically the impact this may have on citizens, consumers and society at large. 

Social Resilience and Security is an interdisciplinary, interfaculty collaboration, bringing together key expertise on transgressive behaviours across social research disciplines and key societal stakeholders. We team up with researchers from governance, developmental psychology, child studies, clinical psychology, criminal law, archeology, and humanities. One pillar of the project focuses on resilience; this project specifically seeks to study resilience in youth from public health, criminology and psychology perspectives, using a range of methodologies.

The Postdoc A3P will be a key member of both teams, as part of a multidisciplinary program (computer science, law and governance). To achieve Accountable Algorithmic Profiling, a balance must be found between the interests and needs of individuals on the one hand, and the interests and needs of businesses and government on the other hand.

(1) How can individuals (consumers / citizens) make best use of data-hungry platforms to improve their lives, while maintaining a high level of privacy and autonomy? (developing accountable profiling for the benefit of individuals).

(2) How can large organizations (technology firms / governments) best protect the edge that they gained due to building profiles of their users, given current legal and technological constraints? (developing accountable profiling for the benefit of society and economy)